Tread Device Showing a Computer Icon in the Vehicle

Your device may show an icon of a GPS device connected to a computer tower when plugged into the vehicle. This icon means the device is in file transfer mode. This is used specifically for connecting to a computer.

This May be Due to the Following Reasons:

• A USB cable is plugged into the device instead of the Garmin-provided power cable

  • This is the most common cause of this issue.

  • This causes the device to think it is plugged into a computer.

    • The device enters file transfer mode when connected to a USB port or cable since they provide less power to the device.

    • The amount of power it receives from the connected cable determines which mode it uses.

  • The USB cable is used for plugging the device into a computer for updates.

• A third-party cable is being used to plug the device into the vehicle (Examples below).

  • A mobile phone charger or adapter.

  • A "hard-wired" cable

  • A 12V USB adapter manufactured by a different company.

See Using Third-Party AC Chargers, Cables, and Other Accessories with Garmin Automotive Devices.

• In more rare cases, the power cable may be damaged.

  • A replacement cable can be purchased from a Garmin dealer or the Garmin Online Store.

    • See Buying Automotive Accessories Directly from Garmin.

  • Contact Product Support if a replacement cable does not resolve the issue.